Parts for your 2013 Nissan Serena-Control arms

2013 Nissan Serena Control Arms: What They Do and When to Replace Them

Yes, the 2013 Nissan Serena (C26) uses control arms at the front. The front suspension is a MacPherson strut layout with a lower transverse link (control arm) that carries the ball joint and bushes. Technical references that cover this include the Nissan Factory Service Manual for the C26 Front Suspension section and the Nissan Electronic Parts Catalogue (FAST), and they’re backed up by aftermarket catalogues from well-known brands listing complete front lower arms for C26 models. The rear is typically a torsion-beam setup with trailing/lateral links rather than conventional upper and lower control arms.

On the Serena, the front control arms locate the wheel hub to the subframe, set geometry like camber and caster, and allow the strut to move smoothly through its travel. They rely on rubber bushes to isolate vibration and a sealed ball joint to articulate the knuckle. When these wear, ride and steering quality take a hit, and tyre wear can spike.

As part of routine servicing, a quick check of the control arm bushes and ball joints is a smart move every 10,000–20,000 km. Look for split or oil-soaked bushes, loose or torn ball joint boots, and corrosion around sleeves—especially on vehicles living near the coast or driving plenty of unsealed roads. Common signs it’s time to act include:

• Clunks over bumps, steering shimmy, or wandering on the motorway
• Uneven or rapid inner-edge tyre wear
• Knock under braking or vague turn-in feel

Replacement is usually done as a complete arm (bushes and ball joint pre-fitted) to save press work and ensure geometry is spot-on. It’s good practice to replace in pairs left/right, torque fasteners at normal ride height, and finish with a four-wheel alignment. Aftermarket quality varies—OE or reputable brands tend to hold alignment better and last longer. If opting for bush-only repairs, make sure pressing is done with proper jigs to avoid twisting the sleeves. Post-repair, keep an eye on tyre pressures and wear patterns, and recheck torque after a few hundred kilometres if the workshop recommends it.

• Service tip: ask your mechanic to check the front sway bar link boots at the same time, they often fail alongside tired control arm bushes.

FAQs

Does the 2013 Serena have rear control arms?
The front definitely uses lower control arms. Most 2WD C26 Serena models run a torsion-beam rear with trailing/lateral links rather than traditional upper and lower control arms. Some 4WD variants use additional links, but they’re still not a double-wishbone style. If unsure, a VIN-based parts lookup will confirm the exact rear layout.

How long do the control arm bushes last, and what might it cost?
On typical Aussie and Kiwi roads, bushes often last 80,000–150,000 km, but rough surfaces and coastal exposure can shorten that. Budget roughly AUD/NZD $250–$550 per side for quality complete arms, plus 1.0–1.5 hours labour each side and a wheel alignment. Press-in bush jobs can be cheaper on parts but may add labour.

Can the Serena’s bushes be replaced without changing the whole arm?
Yes, many workshops can press in new bushes, and some brands sell bush kits. That said, the ball joint is usually sealed, and a full arm assembly often proves better value, reduces downtime, and helps maintain geometry.